Peter Dutton (Dickson, Liberal Party, Leader of the Opposition) Share this | Hansard source

I join the Prime Minister in his words of congratulations to the incoming British Prime Minister. We congratulate Liz Truss on her elevation, her election as the next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. I had the great pleasure of meeting with Liz during the Australian-UK ministerial consultations in January when I was defence minister and she was foreign secretary. As I wrote in my statement last night, Liz is an incredibly intelligent, pragmatic and, indeed, courageous leader. She'll not only make a fine Prime Minister but also lead Britain through challenges both domestic and international.

In her victory speech, Liz promised to deliver on the energy crisis. We're watching with interest Britain's response to the energy crisis, and, indeed, their great, enduring interest in nuclear technology and small modular reactors.

The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom also understands that the resurgence of authoritarianism poses one of the greatest threats of our times, hence her priorities outlined in a speech last December to build a network of liberty and advance the frontiers of freedom. In these testing times, Liz will be the strongest of leaders to advance our two nations in mutual security and economic objectives, including, most importantly, through AUKUS.

I also wish to acknowledge the legacy and achievements of Boris Johnson, a true friend to our country. Today, as we welcome a new British Prime Minister and farewell another, Australia and the United Kingdom remain the best of partners and the dearest of friends.

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